The idea that God is known by these two names appears not only in this week’s parsha, Va’era, but also last week’s. How appropriate that is, since these are the first and second parashiot of the Book of Exodus – in Hebrew, “Shemot/Names.”
Names are central to how we see ourselves, and we, like God, have multiple names: “Dean,” “daddy,” “rabbi,” “son,” “uncle,” “scuba diver,” “hopeful,” “listener,” “celebrant,” and many others. Names convey our identity, our relationships, our professions and hobbies, our moods, attitudes, and beliefs. They describe the different parts of ourselves.
This year’s early calendar means that we read Va’era beginning on Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year. This is a time of hibernation and introspection. It is no coincidence that Hanukkah, the festival that celebrates the growing of the light, usually takes place around the Winter Solstice! Long nights can rob us of hope. Human beings need a reminder that light, warmth, and joy will return.
In these longest nights of the year, take some time to look inside yourself. Is there darkness within? Is there cold, or loss, or quiet? Some other feeling? What name can you find that expresses where you are and what you need? What name can you call yourself in these Darkest Days?
Project forward to springtime. Imagine the person you will be when evenings are long and the living is easy, when summer’s heat scratches threateningly at the screen door. What name do you give that version of yourself who will live in sunlight and hope once more?
We have many names, just as God does. Name yourself, and know yourself.
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